A paint is often applied with beadboard insulation for moisture control.
Insulation can increase the energy efficiency of your basement and make your home more comfortable. There are many different types of insulation that will work on your basement ceiling. Beadboard comes in panels or sheets and is an effective type of insulation many homeowners can install themselves.
Identification
Foam board insulation is typically made from materials such as polyurethane or polystyrene. One particular type of foam board insulation can be formed to insulate many items, such as coffee cups, or is available in sheets or panels to use as insulation. Molded, expanded polystyrene foam board is more commonly known as beadboard and is often applied to insulate homes. Polystyrene beads are placed in beadboard to help increase its strength.
R-Value
The R-value of your insulation determines how well it will work when installed in your basement. The United States Department of Energy states that the R-value measures the insulation's ability to resist heat flow. The R-value depends on the type of insulation you choose and its thickness. When choosing insulation, remember that the higher the R-value, the more effective it will be. Beadboard has an R-value of 3.8 to 4.4 per inch of thickness.
Installation
Before installing beadboard to your basement ceiling, you must first check for moisture damage in your basement. If you see water stains or mold growth, you must locate the source of moisture and repair it before adding insulation, as insulation is less effective when wet. Seal all air leaks with caulk. It is possible to install beadboard yourself, but all areas of the ceiling must be covered thoroughly for best results. Check with your county building office regarding fire codes before installing beadboard. There are a variety of licensed insulation installers qualified to install beadboard. If you consult a professional installer, get three estimates before choosing a contractor.
Considerations
Moisture can be a problem when using beadboard insulation, as the spaces between the foam beads can absorb and hold water, causing damage to your ceiling. Adding a vapor barrier before installing beadboard panels may help reduce moisture damage. Vapor barriers are membranes or coatings that reduce the amount of moisture that comes through the ceiling. Paint is an effective vapor barrier and works well when many layers of paint are applied before installing beadboard.
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